Watch Haunted Screens

Haunted Screens is a four-part documentary series that delves deep into the history of horror films, exploring their evolution throughout the 20th century. Produced by Frankenstein, Finding Frankenstein Productions, Haunted Screens premiered on Hulu in collaboration with the streaming service's Huluween event in 2021. The series sheds light on various aspects of horror films, from the craft of filmmaking to the psychological and cultural impact they have had on society.

Each of the four episodes of the series covers a different era of horror film history, starting with the silent era in the early 1900s and ending with modern horror movies. The first episode, "Silent Screams," explores how the horrors of World War I led to the emergence of gothic horror films in Europe, which were heavily influenced by German Expressionism. The documentary examines how these films used highly stylized visuals and extreme emotions to create a sense of terror in the audience.

The second episode, "The Golden Age of Horror," focuses on the classic horror films of the 1930s and 1940s, including Dracula, Frankenstein, and The Wolf Man. The documentary explores how these films reflected the anxieties of their time, such as the Great Depression and World War II. It also examines how these films pioneered the use of special effects and make-up, which set the stage for modern horror films.

The third episode, "The Horror Renaissance," covers the period of the late 1960s and 1970s, when horror films underwent a radical transformation, becoming more graphic and violent. The documentary examines how films like Night of the Living Dead and The Texas Chain Saw Massacre reflected the cultural and political upheaval of the era, as well as how they influenced subsequent generations of horror filmmakers.

The final episode, "Scream Queens and Slashers," explores the horror films of the 1980s and 1990s, including Halloween, A Nightmare on Elm Street, and Scream. The documentary examines how these films pushed the boundaries of violence and gore, as well as how they subverted gender and sexuality roles. The episode also looks at how these films reflected the anxieties of a society living in the midst of the AIDS crisis and the rise of serial killers.

Throughout the series, Haunted Screens features interviews with horror experts, including film historians, directors, and actors. The documentary also incorporates rare archival footage and behind-the-scenes glimpses of iconic horror films. Additionally, the series examines how horror has shaped popular culture, from Halloween costumes to music videos.

In addition to exploring the history of horror films, Haunted Screens also takes a deep dive into the psychology of why people are drawn to horror. The series examines how the genre helps people navigate their fears and anxieties in a safe and controlled setting. It also explores the ways in which horror films can be empowering, particularly for marginalized groups who have historically been portrayed as victims in horror movies.

Overall, Haunted Screens is a fascinating and well-researched documentary series that will appeal to horror fans and film buffs alike. The series sheds light on the evolution of the horror genre, its cultural and psychological impact, and the artistry behind some of the greatest horror films ever made. Whether you're a die-hard horror fan or just curious about the genre, Haunted Screens is a must-watch.

Haunted Screens is a series that ran for 1 seasons (6 episodes) between October 17, 2017 and on Huluween